US20150101670A1 - Water heater assembly for a refrigerator appliance and a method for operating the same - Google Patents
Water heater assembly for a refrigerator appliance and a method for operating the same Download PDFInfo
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- US20150101670A1 US20150101670A1 US14/054,060 US201314054060A US2015101670A1 US 20150101670 A1 US20150101670 A1 US 20150101670A1 US 201314054060 A US201314054060 A US 201314054060A US 2015101670 A1 US2015101670 A1 US 2015101670A1
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- water
- chamber
- valve
- heating
- air
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Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D23/00—General constructional features
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D23/00—General constructional features
- F25D23/12—Arrangements of compartments additional to cooling compartments; Combinations of refrigerators with other equipment, e.g. stove
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/46—Dispensing spouts, pumps, drain valves or like liquid transporting devices
- A47J31/462—Dispensing spouts, pumps, drain valves or like liquid transporting devices with an intermediate liquid storage tank
- A47J31/465—Dispensing spouts, pumps, drain valves or like liquid transporting devices with an intermediate liquid storage tank for the heated water
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
- F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F25D2400/00—General features of, or devices for refrigerators, cold rooms, ice-boxes, or for cooling or freezing apparatus not covered by any other subclass
- F25D2400/02—Refrigerators including a heater
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/0318—Processes
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
- Y10T137/6416—With heating or cooling of the system
Definitions
- the present subject matter relates generally to refrigerator appliances, such as refrigerator appliances with water heating assemblies, and methods for operating water heating assemblies of refrigerator appliances.
- Certain refrigerator appliances include a dispenser for directing ice from the refrigerator's ice maker and/or liquid water to the dispenser.
- a user can activate the dispenser to direct a flow of ice or liquid water into a cup or other container positioned within the dispenser.
- Liquid water directed to the dispenser is generally chilled or at an ambient temperature.
- certain refrigerator appliances also include features for dispensing heated liquid water.
- Heated liquid water can be used to make certain beverages, such as coffee or tea. Refrigerators equipped to dispense heated liquid water can assist with making such beverages. However, brewing beverages with heated water can create backpressure. Such backpressure can hinder proper water flow to the dispenser and negatively affect operation of the dispenser and/or refrigerator appliance.
- liquid water supplied to the dispenser can be supplied at a supply pressure of a water source of the refrigerator appliance, such as a well or municipal water system. Brewing beverages with heated water at the supply pressure can be difficult due to high flow rates associated the supply pressure.
- a refrigerator appliance with features for generating heated liquid water for brewing beverages would be useful.
- a refrigerator appliance with features for generating heated liquid water for brewing beverages while also supplying heated liquid water at a relatively low pressure would be useful.
- the present subject matter provides a refrigerator appliance and a method for operating a water heating assembly of the same.
- the method includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly to generate heated water.
- an air valve of the water heating assembly is closed and an air pump of the water heating assembly is worked. In such a manner, heated water can be dispensed accurately and/or precisely. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.
- a refrigerator appliance in a first exemplary embodiment, includes a cabinet that defines a chilled chamber.
- the chilled chamber of the cabinet is configured for receipt of food items for storage.
- the cabinet has a door.
- the door is configured for permitting selective access to the chilled chamber of the cabinet.
- a water heating assembly includes a tank that defines a heating chamber and an expansion chamber.
- the tank has a flow conduit that extends between the heating chamber and the expansion chamber.
- the tank also has a vent that permits air to enter and exit the expansion chamber.
- a check valve is positioned within the expansion chamber at an opening of the flow conduit.
- a heating element is mounted to the tank and is positioned within the heating chamber of the tank.
- An air valve is coupled to the expansion chamber of the tank.
- the air valve is configured for selectively adjusting between an open configuration and a closed configuration.
- the air valve permits a flow of air through the vent when the air valve is in the open configuration.
- the air valve obstructs the flow of air through the vent when the air valve is in the closed configuration.
- An air pump is configured for selectively directing air into the expansion chamber.
- the refrigerator appliance also includes an inlet conduit that is configured for directing liquid water into the heating chamber of the tank and an outlet conduit that is configured for directing liquid water out of the heating chamber of the tank.
- a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly in order to heat water within a heating chamber of the water heating assembly. Water within the heating chamber flows into an expansion chamber of the water heating assembly during the step of operating due to expansion of water within the heating chamber. The method also includes closing an air valve of the water heating assembly such that the air valve obstructs air flow out of the expansion chamber through the air valve and working an air pump of the water heating assembly in order to direct air into the expansion chamber after the step of closing the air valve. The air within the expansion chamber urges water out of the expansion chamber during the step of working.
- a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly in order to heat water within a heating chamber of the water heating assembly. Water within the heating chamber flows into an expansion chamber of the water heating assembly during the step of operating due to expansion of water within the heating chamber. The method also includes selecting a heated water dispense or a brewed beverage dispense. A water valve of the water heating assembly is opened such that the water valve permits a flow of water into the heating chamber through the water valve if the heated water dispense is selected at the step of selecting. Heated water within the heating chamber flows out of the heating chamber when the water valve is open.
- An air valve of the water heating assembly is closed such that the air valve obstructs air flow out of the expansion chamber through the air valve and an air pump of the water heating assembly is worked in order to direct air into the expansion chamber after the step of closing the air valve if the brewed beverage dispense is selected at said step of selecting.
- the air within the expansion chamber urges water out of the expansion chamber while the air pump is working.
- FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 2 provides a perspective view a water heating assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of the exemplary water heating assembly of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 provides a schematic view of the exemplary water heating assembly of FIG. 2
- FIGS. 5 , 6 and 7 provide schematic views of a dispensing operation of the exemplary water heating assembly of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 8 provides a schematic view of certain components of the exemplary water heating assembly of FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of a refrigerator appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet or housing 120 .
- Housing 120 extends between an upper portion 101 and a lower portion 102 along a vertical direction V and also extends between a first side portion 103 and a second side portion 104 along a lateral direction L.
- Housing 120 defines chilled chambers, e.g., a fresh food compartment 122 positioned adjacent upper portion 101 of housing 120 and a freezer compartment 124 arranged at lower portion 102 of housing 120 .
- Housing 120 also defines a mechanical compartment (not shown) for receipt of a sealed cooling system for cooling fresh food compartment 122 and freezer compartment 124 .
- Refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a bottom mount refrigerator appliance. However, it should be understood that refrigerator appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Thus, the present subject matter is not limited to refrigerator appliance 100 and may be utilized in any suitable refrigerator appliance. For example, one of skill in the art will understand that the present subject matter may be used with side-by-side style refrigerator appliances or top mount refrigerator appliances as well.
- Refrigerator doors 128 are rotatably hinged to housing 120 , e.g., at an opening 121 that permits access to fresh food compartment 122 , in order to permit selective access to fresh food compartment 122 .
- a freezer door 130 is arranged below refrigerator doors 128 for accessing freezer compartment 124 .
- Freezer door 130 is mounted to a freezer drawer (not shown) slidably coupled within freezer compartment 124 .
- Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a water-dispensing assembly 110 for dispensing liquid water and/or ice to a dispenser recess 168 defined on one of refrigerator doors 128 .
- Water-dispensing assembly 110 includes a dispenser 114 positioned on an exterior portion of refrigerator appliance 100 .
- Dispenser 114 includes several outlets for accessing ice, chilled liquid water, and heated liquid water.
- liquid water from a water source such as a well or municipal water system, can contain additional substances or matter.
- water includes purified water and solutions or mixtures containing water and, e.g., elements (such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine), salts, bacteria, nitrates, organics, flavor additives and other chemical compounds or substances.
- elements such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine
- salts such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine
- bacteria such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine
- nitrates such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine
- organics such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine
- water-dispensing assembly 110 To access ice, chilled liquid water, and heated liquid water, water-dispensing assembly 110 includes a chilled water paddle 134 mounted below a chilled water outlet 132 for accessing chilled liquid water and a heated water paddle 152 mounted below a heated water outlet 150 for accessing heated liquid water. Similarly, an ice paddle 138 is mounted below an ice outlet 136 for accessing ice. As an example, a user can urge a vessel such as a cup against any of chilled water paddle 134 , heated water paddle 152 , and/or ice paddle 138 to initiate a flow of chilled liquid water, heated liquid water, and/or ice into the vessel within dispenser recess 168 , respectively.
- a control panel or user interface panel 140 is provided for controlling the mode of operation of dispenser 114 , e.g., for selecting crushed or whole ice.
- refrigerator appliance 100 may include a single outlet and paddle rather than three separate paddles and dispensers.
- user interface panel 140 can include a chilled water dispensing button (not labeled), an ice-dispensing button (not labeled) and a heated water dispensing button (not labeled) for selecting between chilled liquid water, ice and heated liquid water, respectively.
- Outlets 132 , 136 , and 150 and paddles 134 , 138 , and 152 are an external part of dispenser 114 , and are positioned at or adjacent dispenser recess 168 , e.g., a concave portion defined in an outside surface of refrigerator door 128 .
- Dispenser 114 is positioned at a predetermined elevation convenient for a user to access ice or liquid water, e.g., enabling the user to access ice without the need to bend-over and without the need to access freezer compartment 124 .
- dispenser 114 is positioned at a level that approximates the chest level of a user.
- Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes features for generating heated liquid water and directing such heated liquid water to dispenser recess 168 .
- refrigerator appliance 100 need not be connected to a residential hot water heating system in order to supply heated liquid water to dispenser recess 168 .
- refrigerator appliance 100 includes a water heating assembly 160 mounted to housing 120 .
- water heating assembly 160 may be positioned within refrigerator door 128 for heating water therein.
- Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a tee-joint 162 for splitting a flow of water. Tee-joint 162 directs water to both a heated water conduit 166 and a chilled water conduit 164 .
- Heated water conduit 166 is in fluid communication with water heating assembly 160 and heated water outlet 150 .
- water from tee-joint 162 can pass through water heating assembly 160 and exit refrigerator appliance 100 at heated water outlet 150 as heated liquid water.
- chilled water conduit 164 is in fluid communication with chilled water outlet 132 .
- chilled water conduit 164 and heated water conduit 166 are joined such that chilled and heated water conduits 164 and 166 are connected in parallel or in series to each other and dispense fluid at dispenser recess 168 from a common outlet.
- FIG. 2 provides a perspective view a water heating assembly 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of water heating assembly 200 .
- Water heating assembly 200 can be used in any suitable refrigerator appliance.
- water heating assembly 200 may be used in refrigerator appliance 100 as water heating assembly 160 .
- Water heating assembly 200 includes features for assisting with dispensing heated water, e.g., despite backpressure downstream of water heating assembly 200 .
- water heating assembly 200 includes a tank 210 and a heating element or heater 220 .
- Tank 210 can be made of any suitable material.
- tank 210 may be made of a plastic, such as polyethersulfone.
- Tank 210 may be a molded as a single, integral component or portions of tank 210 may be mounted to one another, e.g., with ultrasonic or thermal welding, etc.
- a metallic liner 212 may be provided or disposed within tank 210 , e.g., to shield tank 210 from heater 220 .
- Heater 220 is mounted to tank 210 , e.g., such that heater 220 is disposed within tank 210 .
- Heater 220 includes a base 222 that is mountable to tank 210 , e.g., at an opening 214 defined by tank 210 . Accordingly, heater 220 and other elements attached to base 222 may be removed, e.g., for service or replacement.
- Heater 220 can be any suitable mechanism for heating water.
- heater 220 may be an electric resistance heating element, a microwave element or an induction heating element.
- Water heating assembly 200 also includes an inlet conduit 230 and an outlet conduit 232 .
- Inlet conduit 230 is in fluid communication with, e.g., extends between, a water supply (not shown), such as a well or municipal water system, and tank 210 .
- outlet conduit 232 is in fluid communication with, e.g., extends between, tank 210 and heated water outlet 150 ( FIG. 1 ) of refrigerator appliance 100 .
- inlet conduit 230 directs a flow of, e.g., cold, water from the water supply into tank 210 .
- heater 220 heats such water to generate heated water
- outlet conduit 232 directs such heated water out of tank 210 to heated water outlet 150 .
- Water heating assembly 200 also includes a check valve 234 , such as a floating ball check valve.
- Check valve 234 includes a float body 236 , seals 238 and guides 240 .
- FIG. 4 provides a schematic view of water heating assembly 200 .
- tank 210 of water heating assembly 200 defines a heating chamber 216 , an expansion chamber 218 and a flow conduit 219 .
- expansion chamber 218 is positioned above heating chamber 216 , e.g., along the vertical direction V.
- Heater 220 is positioned within heating chamber 216 and configured for heating water therein.
- Expansion chamber 218 is configured for receipt of water from heating chamber 218 via flow conduit 219 , e.g., due to thermal expansion of liquid water in heating chamber 216 during operation of heater 220 .
- Flow conduit 219 extends between and fluidly connects heating chamber 216 and expansion chamber 218 .
- flow conduit 219 extends between a first opening 244 and a second opening 246 .
- First opening 244 of flow conduit 219 is position at or adjacent heating chamber 216 of tank 210 , e.g., at a Venturi portion 248 of tank 210 .
- second opening 246 of flow conduit 219 is positioned at or adjacent expansion chamber 218 , e.g., at check valve 234 within expansion chamber 218 .
- water can flow between heating chamber 216 and expansion chamber 218 via or through flow conduit 219 .
- Tank 210 also has a vent 242 .
- Vent is positioned at a top portion of expansion chamber 218 .
- Vent 242 permits air to enter and exit expansion chamber 218 .
- water can flow between heating chamber 216 and expansion chamber 218 via or through flow conduit 219 .
- air within expansion chamber 218 can exit expansion chamber 218 through vent 242 , e.g., in order to avoid positively pressurizing expansion chamber 218 relative to an atmosphere around water heating assembly 200 .
- air can enter expansion chamber 218 through vent 242 , e.g., in order to avoid negatively pressurizing expansion chamber 218 relative to the atmosphere around water heating assembly 200 .
- water heating assembly 200 includes an air valve 250 .
- Air valve 250 is coupled to expansion chamber 218 .
- air valve 250 may be mounted to tank 210 at vent 242 such that air valve 250 is coupled to expansion chamber 218 .
- Air valve 250 is configured for selectively adjusting between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Air valve 250 permits a flow of air through vent 242 (into or out of expansion chamber 218 ) when air valve 250 is in the open configuration. Conversely, air valve 250 obstructs or blocks the flow of air through vent 242 when air valve 250 is in the closed configuration. In such a manner, air valve 250 can regulate airflow through vent 242 and into and out of expansion chamber 218 .
- water heating assembly 200 includes a water valve 252 coupled to inlet conduit 230 .
- water valve 252 may be mounted to inlet conduit 210 or tank 210 at or adjacent inlet conduit 230 .
- Water valve 252 is configured for regulating a flow of water through inlet conduit 230 into heating chamber 216 of tank 210 .
- water valve 252 is configured for selectively adjusting between an open arrangement and a closed arrangement. In the open arrangement, water valve 252 permits the flow of water into heating chamber 216 through inlet conduit 230 . Conversely, water valve 252 obstructs or blocks the flow of water into heating chamber 216 through inlet conduit 230 when water valve 252 is in the closed arrangement. In such a manner, water valve 252 can regulate water flow through inlet conduit 230 into heating chamber 216 .
- Air pump 254 is configured for selectively directing air into expansion chamber 218 .
- air pump 254 can urge or force air into expansion chamber 218 , e.g., regardless of whether air valve 250 is opened or closed. In such a manner, air pump 254 can force water out of expansion chamber 218 .
- air from air pump 254 can displace water within expansion chamber 218 such that the water flows out of expansion chamber 218 via flow conduit 219 .
- Air pump 254 may be mounted to tank 210 , e.g., at or adjacent vent 242 .
- Water heating assembly 200 also includes a downspout 256 .
- Downspout 256 is positioned within tank 210 , e.g., within heating chamber 216 of tank 210 .
- Downspout 256 receives water from inlet conduit 230 and directs such water into heating chamber 216 of tank 210 .
- downspout 256 directs water from inlet conduit 230 to a bottom portion of heating chamber 216 .
- downspout 256 can facilitate or assist thermal stratification within heating chamber 216 .
- inlet conduit 230 and outlet conduit 240 are positioned on opposite sides of tank 210 , e.g., along the lateral direction L. Such positioning of inlet conduit 230 and outlet conduit 240 can also assist thermal stratification within heating chamber 216 .
- Venturi portion 248 of tank 210 is configured for generating a volume of relatively low pressure water. For example, when a flow of water enters tank 210 at inlet conduit 230 . Such flow of water passes through Venturi portion 248 of tank 210 . Due to the converging cross-sectional area of Venturi portion 248 , a velocity of the flow of water in the Venturi portion 248 can increase while a pressure of the flow of water in the Venturi portion 248 decreases. In particular, the flow of water within Venturi portion 248 can have a pressure less than that of an atmosphere in which water heating assembly 200 is disposed. In such a manner, Venturi portion 248 can draw water out of expansion chamber 218 through flow conduit 219 when the flow of water passes through Venturi portion 248 .
- air from the atmosphere in which water heating assembly 200 is disposed can also enter expansion chamber 218 through vent 242 with air valve 250 in the open configuration, e.g., to permit the flow of water out of expansion chamber 218 due to Venturi portion 248 .
- controller 260 Operation of water heating assembly 200 and/or refrigerator appliance 100 is controlled by a processing device or controller 260 that is operatively coupled to control panel 140 for user manipulation to select water heating and dispensing operations and features.
- controller 260 operates the various components of water heating assembly 200 and/or refrigerator appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features.
- Controller 260 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with water heating cycles.
- the memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH.
- the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory.
- the memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor.
- controller 260 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software.
- Control panel 108 and other components of water heating assembly 200 and/or refrigerator appliance 100 may be in communication with controller 260 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.
- Controller 260 is operatively coupled to or in communication with heater 220 , air valve 250 , water valve 252 and air pump 254 .
- Water heating assembly 200 also includes water level sensor 262 and a temperature sensor 264 .
- Controller 260 is in communication with water level sensor 262 and temperature sensor 264 . Based upon respective signals from water level sensor 262 and temperature sensor 264 , controller 260 can determine or establish a level of water in heating chamber 216 and a temperature of water in heating chamber 216 .
- Water level sensor 262 is disposed within heating chamber 216 of tank 210 , e.g., and is mounted to tank 210 .
- Water level sensor 262 is configured for measuring of detecting a level or height of water in heating chamber 216 .
- water level sensor 262 can actuate when water reaches a certain predefined height in heating chamber 216 .
- Water level sensor 262 can be any suitable sensor for measuring or determining the height of water in heating chamber 216 .
- water level sensor 262 may be a float switch, a series of continuity probes, an optical or IR sensor, etc.
- Water temperature sensor 264 is disposed adjacent or within heating chamber 216 of tank 210 , e.g., and is mounted to tank 210 . Water temperature sensor 264 is configured for measuring of detecting a temperature of water in heating chamber 216 . Water temperature sensor 264 can be any suitable sensor for measuring or determining the temperature of water in heating chamber 216 . For example, water temperature sensor 264 may be a thermocouple, a thermistor, a thermostat, etc.
- FIGS. 5 , 6 and 7 provide schematic views of a dispensing operation of water heating assembly 200 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a method 300 for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- Method 300 can be used to operate any suitable water heating assembly.
- method 300 may be used to operate water heating assembly 160 of refrigerator appliance 100 ( FIG. 1 ) and/or water heating assembly 200 ( FIG. 2 ).
- controller 260 of water heating assembly 200 may be programmed or configured to implement method 300 .
- a performance of water heating assembly 200 can be improved, e.g., despite backpressure downstream of water heating assembly 200 .
- Method 300 is discussed in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 5 , 6 and 7 .
- heating chamber 216 is filled with water.
- controller 260 can actuate water valve 254 to the open arrangement in order to initiate a flow of water into heating chamber 216 through inlet conduit 230 and downspout 256 .
- controller 260 can actuate water valve 254 to the closed arrangement, e.g., when heating chamber 216 of tank 210 is full of water as shown in FIG. 5 .
- air valve 250 can be in the open configuration. With air valve 250 in the open configuration air from heating chamber 216 can flow through flow conduit 219 to expansion chamber 218 . In such a manner, air valve 250 can hinder pressurization of air in heating chamber 216 and/or expansion chamber 218 during step 310 .
- a heated water request signal is received by controller 260 , e.g., from control panel 140 of refrigerator 100 .
- a user of refrigerator appliance 100 can actuate a button on control panel 100 to generate the heated water request signal at control panel 140 during step 315 .
- the heated water request signal can correspond to an activation signal for water heating assembly 200 , e.g., that starts heating of water by water heating assembly 200 .
- controller 260 can open air valve 250 or verify that air valve 250 is open prior to step 320 .
- air valve 250 in the open configuration, water can flow into expansion chamber 218 , e.g., due to thermal expansion of water at step 320 , without pressurizing heating chamber 216 and/or evaporation chamber 218 .
- air valve 250 permits air flow out of expansion chamber 218 through vent 242 in the open configuration.
- controller 260 operates heater 220 in order to heat the water within heating chamber 216 .
- the water within heating chamber 216 expands during step 320 , and water can flow into expansion chamber 218 from heating chamber 216 via flow conduit 219 during step 320 due to such expansion as shown in FIG. 6 .
- controller 260 measures the temperature of water within heating chamber 216 .
- Controller 260 can monitor the temperature of the water within heating chamber 216 at step 325 until the temperature of the water in heating chamber 216 exceeds a threshold temperature, e.g., about one hundred and eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit.
- controller 260 deactivates heater 220 in order to stop heating water within heating chamber 216 at step 330 .
- controller 260 closes air valve 250 , e.g., such that air valve 250 obstructs air flow out of expansion chamber 218 through air valve 250 and vent 242 .
- air valve 250 is adjusted to the closed configuration such that air valve 250 obstructs airflow through vent 242 .
- controller 260 works or operates air pump 252 , e.g., in order to direct air into expansion chamber 218 .
- air pump 252 forces or urges water out of expansion chamber 218 .
- air pump 252 can remove water within expansion chamber 218 from expansion chamber 218 by pumping air into expansion chamber 218 with air valve 250 closed.
- air pump 252 can remove water that enters expansion chamber 218 during step 320 from expansion chamber 218 at step 340 .
- heated water within heating chamber 216 also flows out of heating chamber 216 .
- heated water within heating chamber 216 can flow out of heating chamber 216 via outlet conduit 232 during step 340 due to air pump 252 forcing water from expansion chamber 218 into heating chamber 216 .
- Expansion chamber 218 contains a finite volume of water therein.
- controller 260 can deactivate air pump 250 when check valve 234 closes. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , after air pump 252 has removed substantially all water from expansion chamber 218 , float body 236 of check valve 234 can settle at or adjacent flow conduit 219 , e.g., second opening 246 of flow conduit 219 . Thus, float body 236 can hinder or block further water flow and airflow out of expansion conduit 218 through flow conduit 219 . At such time, controller 260 can deactivate air pump 250 . In such a manner, a particular volume of heated liquid water can be dispensed at step 340 by air pump 252 .
- expansion chamber 218 can be sized to contain sufficient water to brew a beverage.
- expansion chamber 218 can be sized to contain at least six ounces or eight ounces of liquid water.
- air pump 252 can dispense or displace at least six ounces or eight ounces of heated water from heating chamber 216 of tank 210 .
- Controller 260 can also deactivate air pump 252 at a later time as discussed below.
- controller 260 opens water valve 254 , e.g., such that water valve 254 permits a flow of water from inlet conduit 230 into heating chamber 216 through water valve 254 . Heated water within heating chamber 216 also flows out of heating chamber 216 when water valve 254 is opened at step 345 .
- water from inlet conduit 230 displaces heated water within heating chamber 216 from heating chamber 216 , e.g., and dispenses such heated water through outlet conduit 232 .
- controller 260 closes water valve 254 , e.g., when a predetermined volume of heated water has been dispensed.
- controller deactivates air pump 254 , e.g., if controller 260 has not already deactivated air pump 254 prior to step 245 .
- controller 260 can deactivate air pump 254 when check valve 234 closes. In such a manner, over-pressurization of expansion chamber 218 can be avoided or limited.
- Air valve 250 opens at step 360 , e.g., to vent expansion chamber 218 .
- heated water with heating chamber 216 can be dispensed by pumping air into expansion chamber 218 with air pump 252 .
- Air pump 252 can be configured to pump air into expansion chamber 218 at a variety of pressures and/or flow rates in order to regulate the flow of heated water out of heating chamber 216 .
- heated water within heating chamber 216 can be dispensed accurately and/or precisely with air pump 252 .
- method 300 can assist with dispensing heated water accurately and/or precisely despite backpressure downstream of water heating assembly 200 .
- heating chamber 216 can be refilled with water from inlet conduit 230 , while air pump 252 is operating or after air pump 252 has been deactivated, by actuating water valve 242 .
- FIG. 8 provides a schematic view of certain components of water heating assembly 200 .
- water heating assembly 200 is configured for directing heated water in heating chamber 218 to a brewing module 290 .
- brewing module 290 such heated water may be combined with various food items or flavor additives, such as tea leaves or coffee grounds, to brew or generate a beverage for consumption.
- Outlet conduit 232 extends between tank 210 and brewing module 290 in order to direct heated water from heating chamber 216 of tank 210 to brewing module 290 .
- water heating assembly 200 includes a water supply 280 , such as a well or municipal water system.
- Water supply 280 directs liquid water at a premises line pressure to water heating assembly 200 .
- the premises line pressure can vary, for example, between about twenty psig and about one hundred and twenty psig. Typical premises line pressures are in the range of about sixty psig.
- An isolation valve 282 can selectively terminate water flow from water supply 280 to water heating assembly 200 .
- a filter 284 filters or screens particles and/or other impurities from water flowing therethrough.
- Water heating assembly 200 also includes a flow meter 286 for measuring a flow rate of water flowing therethrough. Flow meter 286 can assist water level sensor 262 with determining or measuring the volume of water in heating chamber 216 and/or expansion chamber 218 .
- a flow conditioner 288 can reduce a pressure of water passing therethrough. As an example, flow condition 288 can reduce the pressure of water from water source 280 from about sixty psig to about twenty psig.
- an inlet 233 of outlet conduit 232 is positioned within heating chamber 216 .
- inlet 233 of outlet conduit 232 is spaced apart from a top wall 211 of tank 210 , e.g., along the vertical direction V, by about a height H. Such spacing can assist with dispensing a particular volume of heated water from water heating assembly 200 as discussed in greater detail below.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a method 400 for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.
- Method 400 can be used to operate any suitable water heating assembly.
- method 400 may be used to operate water heating assembly 160 of refrigerator appliance 100 ( FIG. 1 ) and/or water heating assembly 200 ( FIG. 2 ).
- controller 260 of water heating assembly 200 may be programmed or configured to implement method 400 .
- a performance of water heating assembly 200 can be improved, e.g., despite backpressure downstream of water heating assembly 200 .
- Method 400 is discussed in greater detail below with reference to FIG. 8 .
- heating chamber 216 is filled with water.
- controller 260 can actuate water valve 254 to the open arrangement in order to initiate a flow of water into heating chamber 216 through inlet conduit 230 and downspout 256 .
- controller 260 can actuate water valve 254 to the closed arrangement, e.g., when heating chamber 216 of tank 210 is full of water.
- air valve 250 can be in the open configuration. With air valve 250 in the open configuration air from heating chamber 216 can flow through flow conduit 219 to expansion chamber 218 . In such a manner, air valve 250 can hinder pressurization of air in heating chamber 216 and/or expansion chamber 218 during step 410 .
- a heated water request signal is received by controller 260 , e.g., from control panel 140 of refrigerator 100 .
- a user of refrigerator appliance 100 can actuate a button on control panel 100 to generate the heated water request signal at control panel 140 during step 415 .
- the heated water request signal can correspond to an activation signal for water heating assembly 200 , e.g., that starts heating of water by water heating assembly 200 .
- controller 260 operates heater 220 in order to heat the water within heating chamber 216 .
- the water within heating chamber 216 expands during step 420 , and water can flow into expansion chamber 218 during step 420 due to such expansion.
- controller 260 measures the temperature of water within heating chamber 216 .
- Controller 260 can monitor the temperature of the water within heating chamber 216 at step 425 until the temperature of the water in heating chamber 216 exceeds a threshold temperature, e.g., about one hundred and eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature of the water in heating chamber 216 exceeds the threshold temperature, controller 260 can deactivate heater 220 in order to stop heating water within heating chamber 216 .
- a threshold temperature e.g., about one hundred and eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit.
- controller 260 determines whether a heated water dispense or a brewed beverage dispense was requested at step 415 .
- the heated water dispense can correspond to a request for dispensing of heated water from the water heating assembly 200 .
- the brewed beverage dispense can correspond to a request for dispensing of brewed beverage from the water heating assembly 200 , e.g., the brewing module 290 of water heating assembly 200 .
- a user can select the heated water dispense at step 415 if only heated water is desired, or the user can select the brewed beverage dispense at step 425 is a flavored beverage is desired.
- brewing module 290 can generate backpressure that affects operation of water heating assembly 200 , such as water flow through heating chamber 216 and Venturi portion 248 .
- water heating appliance 200 can experience backpressure as a result of brewing module 290 .
- backpressure is not experienced, e.g., because brewing module 290 is not activated or utilized.
- method 400 can assist with operating water heating assembly 200 in a manner that accounts for backpressure.
- controller 260 opens water valve 252 such that water valve 252 permits a flow of water into heating chamber 216 through inlet conduit 230 if the heated water dispense is selected at step 430 .
- heated water within heating chamber 216 flows out of heating chamber 216 and is dispensed, e.g., due to water from inlet conduit 230 displacing such heated water.
- inlet conduit 230 such water also passes through Venturi portion 248 .
- Venturi portion 248 draws water from expansion chamber 218 into heating chamber 216 . In such a manner, Venturi portion 248 can drain expansion chamber 218 , and heated water from heating chamber 216 can be dispensed during the heated water dispense.
- controller 260 closes air valve 250 , e.g., such that air valve 250 obstructs air flow out of expansion chamber 218 through air valve 250 and vent 242 , if the brewed beverage dispense is selected at step 430 .
- air valve 250 is adjusted to the closed configuration such that air valve 250 obstructs airflow through vent 242 .
- controller 260 works or operates air pump 252 , e.g., in order to direct air into expansion chamber 218 .
- air pump 252 forces or urges water out of expansion chamber 218 .
- air pump 252 can remove water within expansion chamber 218 from expansion chamber 218 by pumping air into expansion chamber 218 with air valve 250 closed.
- heated water within heating chamber 216 also flows out of heating chamber 216 and is dispensed at step 455 .
- heated water within heating chamber 216 can flow out of heating chamber 216 via outlet conduit 232 during step 455 due to air pump 252 forcing water from expansion chamber 218 into heating chamber 216 .
- air pump 252 can drain expansion chamber 218 and dispense heated water from heating chamber 216 during the brewed beverage dispense, e.g., when backpressure from brewing module 290 negates the effect of Venturi portion 248 .
- Method 400 can also include directing a flow of air through brewing module 290 with air pump 254 after step 455 .
- check valve 234 is an active valve, such as solenoid valve
- controller 260 can open check valve 234 and permit air from air pump to enter heating chamber 216 at step 450 .
- Air can displace heated water within heating chamber 216 and force or urge heated water out of heating chamber 216 via outlet conduit 232 , e.g., until the level of liquid in heating chamber 216 drops below the inlet 233 of outlet conduit 232 .
- air pump 254 can dispense a particular volume of heated water from heating chamber 216 and also direct air through brewing module 290 after dispensing the particular volume of heated water.
- controller 260 can pulse or intermittently activate air pump 254 when a dispense operation of water heating assembly 200 is initiated, e.g., prior to step 340 and/or step 450 .
- Such intermittent operation can cause droplets of water to be dispensed rather than a stream of water, and such droplets can assist the user with properly locating the container within the dispenser.
Abstract
Description
- The present subject matter relates generally to refrigerator appliances, such as refrigerator appliances with water heating assemblies, and methods for operating water heating assemblies of refrigerator appliances.
- Certain refrigerator appliances include a dispenser for directing ice from the refrigerator's ice maker and/or liquid water to the dispenser. A user can activate the dispenser to direct a flow of ice or liquid water into a cup or other container positioned within the dispenser. Liquid water directed to the dispenser is generally chilled or at an ambient temperature. However, certain refrigerator appliances also include features for dispensing heated liquid water.
- Heated liquid water can be used to make certain beverages, such as coffee or tea. Refrigerators equipped to dispense heated liquid water can assist with making such beverages. However, brewing beverages with heated water can create backpressure. Such backpressure can hinder proper water flow to the dispenser and negatively affect operation of the dispenser and/or refrigerator appliance. In addition, liquid water supplied to the dispenser can be supplied at a supply pressure of a water source of the refrigerator appliance, such as a well or municipal water system. Brewing beverages with heated water at the supply pressure can be difficult due to high flow rates associated the supply pressure.
- Accordingly, a refrigerator appliance with features for generating heated liquid water for brewing beverages would be useful. In particular, a refrigerator appliance with features for generating heated liquid water for brewing beverages while also supplying heated liquid water at a relatively low pressure would be useful.
- The present subject matter provides a refrigerator appliance and a method for operating a water heating assembly of the same. The method includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly to generate heated water. To dispense the heated water, an air valve of the water heating assembly is closed and an air pump of the water heating assembly is worked. In such a manner, heated water can be dispensed accurately and/or precisely. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.
- In a first exemplary embodiment, a refrigerator appliance is provided. The refrigerator appliance includes a cabinet that defines a chilled chamber. The chilled chamber of the cabinet is configured for receipt of food items for storage. The cabinet has a door. The door is configured for permitting selective access to the chilled chamber of the cabinet. A water heating assembly includes a tank that defines a heating chamber and an expansion chamber. The tank has a flow conduit that extends between the heating chamber and the expansion chamber. The tank also has a vent that permits air to enter and exit the expansion chamber. A check valve is positioned within the expansion chamber at an opening of the flow conduit. A heating element is mounted to the tank and is positioned within the heating chamber of the tank. An air valve is coupled to the expansion chamber of the tank. The air valve is configured for selectively adjusting between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The air valve permits a flow of air through the vent when the air valve is in the open configuration. The air valve obstructs the flow of air through the vent when the air valve is in the closed configuration. An air pump is configured for selectively directing air into the expansion chamber. The refrigerator appliance also includes an inlet conduit that is configured for directing liquid water into the heating chamber of the tank and an outlet conduit that is configured for directing liquid water out of the heating chamber of the tank.
- In a second exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance is provided. The method includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly in order to heat water within a heating chamber of the water heating assembly. Water within the heating chamber flows into an expansion chamber of the water heating assembly during the step of operating due to expansion of water within the heating chamber. The method also includes closing an air valve of the water heating assembly such that the air valve obstructs air flow out of the expansion chamber through the air valve and working an air pump of the water heating assembly in order to direct air into the expansion chamber after the step of closing the air valve. The air within the expansion chamber urges water out of the expansion chamber during the step of working.
- In a third exemplary embodiment, a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance is provided. The method includes operating a heating element of the water heating assembly in order to heat water within a heating chamber of the water heating assembly. Water within the heating chamber flows into an expansion chamber of the water heating assembly during the step of operating due to expansion of water within the heating chamber. The method also includes selecting a heated water dispense or a brewed beverage dispense. A water valve of the water heating assembly is opened such that the water valve permits a flow of water into the heating chamber through the water valve if the heated water dispense is selected at the step of selecting. Heated water within the heating chamber flows out of the heating chamber when the water valve is open. An air valve of the water heating assembly is closed such that the air valve obstructs air flow out of the expansion chamber through the air valve and an air pump of the water heating assembly is worked in order to direct air into the expansion chamber after the step of closing the air valve if the brewed beverage dispense is selected at said step of selecting. The air within the expansion chamber urges water out of the expansion chamber while the air pump is working.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.
- A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.
-
FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view a water heating assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of the exemplary water heating assembly ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 provides a schematic view of the exemplary water heating assembly ofFIG. 2 -
FIGS. 5 , 6 and 7 provide schematic views of a dispensing operation of the exemplary water heating assembly ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 8 provides a schematic view of certain components of the exemplary water heating assembly ofFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 9 illustrates a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a method for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. - Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
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FIG. 1 provides a front, elevation view of arefrigerator appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet orhousing 120.Housing 120 extends between anupper portion 101 and alower portion 102 along a vertical direction V and also extends between afirst side portion 103 and asecond side portion 104 along a lateraldirection L. Housing 120 defines chilled chambers, e.g., afresh food compartment 122 positioned adjacentupper portion 101 ofhousing 120 and afreezer compartment 124 arranged atlower portion 102 ofhousing 120.Housing 120 also defines a mechanical compartment (not shown) for receipt of a sealed cooling system for coolingfresh food compartment 122 andfreezer compartment 124. -
Refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a bottom mount refrigerator appliance. However, it should be understood thatrefrigerator appliance 100 is provided by way of example only. Thus, the present subject matter is not limited torefrigerator appliance 100 and may be utilized in any suitable refrigerator appliance. For example, one of skill in the art will understand that the present subject matter may be used with side-by-side style refrigerator appliances or top mount refrigerator appliances as well. -
Refrigerator doors 128 are rotatably hinged tohousing 120, e.g., at an opening 121 that permits access tofresh food compartment 122, in order to permit selective access tofresh food compartment 122. Afreezer door 130 is arranged belowrefrigerator doors 128 for accessingfreezer compartment 124.Freezer door 130 is mounted to a freezer drawer (not shown) slidably coupled withinfreezer compartment 124. -
Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a water-dispensingassembly 110 for dispensing liquid water and/or ice to adispenser recess 168 defined on one ofrefrigerator doors 128. Water-dispensingassembly 110 includes adispenser 114 positioned on an exterior portion ofrefrigerator appliance 100.Dispenser 114 includes several outlets for accessing ice, chilled liquid water, and heated liquid water. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, liquid water from a water source, such as a well or municipal water system, can contain additional substances or matter. Thus, as used herein, the term “water” includes purified water and solutions or mixtures containing water and, e.g., elements (such as calcium, chlorine, and fluorine), salts, bacteria, nitrates, organics, flavor additives and other chemical compounds or substances. - To access ice, chilled liquid water, and heated liquid water, water-dispensing
assembly 110 includes achilled water paddle 134 mounted below achilled water outlet 132 for accessing chilled liquid water and aheated water paddle 152 mounted below aheated water outlet 150 for accessing heated liquid water. Similarly, anice paddle 138 is mounted below anice outlet 136 for accessing ice. As an example, a user can urge a vessel such as a cup against any of chilledwater paddle 134,heated water paddle 152, and/orice paddle 138 to initiate a flow of chilled liquid water, heated liquid water, and/or ice into the vessel withindispenser recess 168, respectively. - A control panel or
user interface panel 140 is provided for controlling the mode of operation ofdispenser 114, e.g., for selecting crushed or whole ice. In additional exemplary embodiments,refrigerator appliance 100 may include a single outlet and paddle rather than three separate paddles and dispensers. In such embodiments,user interface panel 140 can include a chilled water dispensing button (not labeled), an ice-dispensing button (not labeled) and a heated water dispensing button (not labeled) for selecting between chilled liquid water, ice and heated liquid water, respectively. -
Outlets dispenser 114, and are positioned at oradjacent dispenser recess 168, e.g., a concave portion defined in an outside surface ofrefrigerator door 128.Dispenser 114 is positioned at a predetermined elevation convenient for a user to access ice or liquid water, e.g., enabling the user to access ice without the need to bend-over and without the need to accessfreezer compartment 124. In the exemplary embodiment,dispenser 114 is positioned at a level that approximates the chest level of a user. -
Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes features for generating heated liquid water and directing such heated liquid water todispenser recess 168. Thus,refrigerator appliance 100 need not be connected to a residential hot water heating system in order to supply heated liquid water todispenser recess 168. In particular,refrigerator appliance 100 includes awater heating assembly 160 mounted tohousing 120. In particular,water heating assembly 160 may be positioned withinrefrigerator door 128 for heating water therein.Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a tee-joint 162 for splitting a flow of water. Tee-joint 162 directs water to both aheated water conduit 166 and achilled water conduit 164. -
Heated water conduit 166 is in fluid communication withwater heating assembly 160 andheated water outlet 150. Thus, water from tee-joint 162 can pass throughwater heating assembly 160 andexit refrigerator appliance 100 atheated water outlet 150 as heated liquid water. Conversely,chilled water conduit 164 is in fluid communication withchilled water outlet 132. Thus, water from tee-joint 162 can exitrefrigerator appliance 100 as chilled liquid water atchilled water outlet 132. In alternative exemplary embodiments,chilled water conduit 164 andheated water conduit 166 are joined such that chilled andheated water conduits dispenser recess 168 from a common outlet. -
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view awater heating assembly 200 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.FIG. 3 provides an exploded view ofwater heating assembly 200.Water heating assembly 200 can be used in any suitable refrigerator appliance. For example,water heating assembly 200 may be used inrefrigerator appliance 100 aswater heating assembly 160.Water heating assembly 200 includes features for assisting with dispensing heated water, e.g., despite backpressure downstream ofwater heating assembly 200. - As may be seen in
FIGS. 2 and 3 ,water heating assembly 200 includes atank 210 and a heating element orheater 220.Tank 210 can be made of any suitable material. For example,tank 210 may be made of a plastic, such as polyethersulfone.Tank 210 may be a molded as a single, integral component or portions oftank 210 may be mounted to one another, e.g., with ultrasonic or thermal welding, etc. Ametallic liner 212 may be provided or disposed withintank 210, e.g., to shieldtank 210 fromheater 220. -
Heater 220 is mounted totank 210, e.g., such thatheater 220 is disposed withintank 210.Heater 220 includes a base 222 that is mountable totank 210, e.g., at anopening 214 defined bytank 210. Accordingly,heater 220 and other elements attached tobase 222 may be removed, e.g., for service or replacement.Heater 220 can be any suitable mechanism for heating water. For example,heater 220 may be an electric resistance heating element, a microwave element or an induction heating element. -
Water heating assembly 200 also includes aninlet conduit 230 and anoutlet conduit 232.Inlet conduit 230 is in fluid communication with, e.g., extends between, a water supply (not shown), such as a well or municipal water system, andtank 210. Conversely,outlet conduit 232 is in fluid communication with, e.g., extends between,tank 210 and heated water outlet 150 (FIG. 1 ) ofrefrigerator appliance 100. Thus,inlet conduit 230 directs a flow of, e.g., cold, water from the water supply intotank 210. Withintank 210,heater 220 heats such water to generate heated water, andoutlet conduit 232 directs such heated water out oftank 210 toheated water outlet 150.Water heating assembly 200 also includes acheck valve 234, such as a floating ball check valve.Check valve 234 includes afloat body 236,seals 238 and guides 240. -
FIG. 4 provides a schematic view ofwater heating assembly 200. As may be seen inFIG. 4 ,tank 210 ofwater heating assembly 200 defines aheating chamber 216, anexpansion chamber 218 and aflow conduit 219. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 4 ,expansion chamber 218 is positioned aboveheating chamber 216, e.g., along the verticaldirection V. Heater 220 is positioned withinheating chamber 216 and configured for heating water therein.Expansion chamber 218 is configured for receipt of water fromheating chamber 218 viaflow conduit 219, e.g., due to thermal expansion of liquid water inheating chamber 216 during operation ofheater 220. - Flow
conduit 219 extends between and fluidly connectsheating chamber 216 andexpansion chamber 218. In particular,flow conduit 219 extends between afirst opening 244 and asecond opening 246. First opening 244 offlow conduit 219 is position at oradjacent heating chamber 216 oftank 210, e.g., at aVenturi portion 248 oftank 210. Conversely,second opening 246 offlow conduit 219 is positioned at oradjacent expansion chamber 218, e.g., atcheck valve 234 withinexpansion chamber 218. Thus, water can flow betweenheating chamber 216 andexpansion chamber 218 via or throughflow conduit 219. -
Tank 210 also has avent 242. Vent is positioned at a top portion ofexpansion chamber 218. Vent 242 permits air to enter and exitexpansion chamber 218. As discussed above, water can flow betweenheating chamber 216 andexpansion chamber 218 via or throughflow conduit 219. When water is flowing intoexpansion chamber 218 fromheating chamber 216, air withinexpansion chamber 218 can exitexpansion chamber 218 throughvent 242, e.g., in order to avoid positively pressurizingexpansion chamber 218 relative to an atmosphere aroundwater heating assembly 200. Similarly, when water is flowing out ofexpansion chamber 218 toheating chamber 216, air can enterexpansion chamber 218 throughvent 242, e.g., in order to avoid negatively pressurizingexpansion chamber 218 relative to the atmosphere aroundwater heating assembly 200. - To regulate the flow of air through
vent 242,water heating assembly 200 includes anair valve 250.Air valve 250 is coupled toexpansion chamber 218. For example,air valve 250 may be mounted totank 210 atvent 242 such thatair valve 250 is coupled toexpansion chamber 218.Air valve 250 is configured for selectively adjusting between an open configuration and a closed configuration.Air valve 250 permits a flow of air through vent 242 (into or out of expansion chamber 218) whenair valve 250 is in the open configuration. Conversely,air valve 250 obstructs or blocks the flow of air throughvent 242 whenair valve 250 is in the closed configuration. In such a manner,air valve 250 can regulate airflow throughvent 242 and into and out ofexpansion chamber 218. - As may be seen in
FIG. 4 ,water heating assembly 200 includes awater valve 252 coupled toinlet conduit 230. In particular,water valve 252 may be mounted toinlet conduit 210 ortank 210 at oradjacent inlet conduit 230.Water valve 252 is configured for regulating a flow of water throughinlet conduit 230 intoheating chamber 216 oftank 210. In particular,water valve 252 is configured for selectively adjusting between an open arrangement and a closed arrangement. In the open arrangement,water valve 252 permits the flow of water intoheating chamber 216 throughinlet conduit 230. Conversely,water valve 252 obstructs or blocks the flow of water intoheating chamber 216 throughinlet conduit 230 whenwater valve 252 is in the closed arrangement. In such a manner,water valve 252 can regulate water flow throughinlet conduit 230 intoheating chamber 216. -
Water heating assembly 200 also includes anair pump 254.Air pump 254 is configured for selectively directing air intoexpansion chamber 218. In particular,air pump 254 can urge or force air intoexpansion chamber 218, e.g., regardless of whetherair valve 250 is opened or closed. In such a manner,air pump 254 can force water out ofexpansion chamber 218. As discussed in greater detail below, air fromair pump 254 can displace water withinexpansion chamber 218 such that the water flows out ofexpansion chamber 218 viaflow conduit 219.Air pump 254 may be mounted totank 210, e.g., at oradjacent vent 242. -
Water heating assembly 200 also includes adownspout 256.Downspout 256 is positioned withintank 210, e.g., withinheating chamber 216 oftank 210.Downspout 256 receives water frominlet conduit 230 and directs such water intoheating chamber 216 oftank 210. In particular,downspout 256 directs water frominlet conduit 230 to a bottom portion ofheating chamber 216. In such a manner,downspout 256 can facilitate or assist thermal stratification withinheating chamber 216. As may be seen inFIG. 4 ,inlet conduit 230 andoutlet conduit 240 are positioned on opposite sides oftank 210, e.g., along the lateral direction L. Such positioning ofinlet conduit 230 andoutlet conduit 240 can also assist thermal stratification withinheating chamber 216. -
Venturi portion 248 oftank 210 is configured for generating a volume of relatively low pressure water. For example, when a flow of water enterstank 210 atinlet conduit 230. Such flow of water passes throughVenturi portion 248 oftank 210. Due to the converging cross-sectional area ofVenturi portion 248, a velocity of the flow of water in theVenturi portion 248 can increase while a pressure of the flow of water in theVenturi portion 248 decreases. In particular, the flow of water withinVenturi portion 248 can have a pressure less than that of an atmosphere in whichwater heating assembly 200 is disposed. In such a manner,Venturi portion 248 can draw water out ofexpansion chamber 218 throughflow conduit 219 when the flow of water passes throughVenturi portion 248. As discussed above, air from the atmosphere in whichwater heating assembly 200 is disposed can also enterexpansion chamber 218 throughvent 242 withair valve 250 in the open configuration, e.g., to permit the flow of water out ofexpansion chamber 218 due toVenturi portion 248. - Operation of
water heating assembly 200 and/orrefrigerator appliance 100 is controlled by a processing device orcontroller 260 that is operatively coupled to controlpanel 140 for user manipulation to select water heating and dispensing operations and features. In response to user manipulation ofcontrol panel 140,controller 260 operates the various components ofwater heating assembly 200 and/orrefrigerator appliance 100 to execute selected machine cycles and features. -
Controller 260 may include a memory and microprocessor, such as a general or special purpose microprocessor operable to execute programming instructions or micro-control code associated with water heating cycles. The memory may represent random access memory such as DRAM, or read only memory such as ROM or FLASH. In one embodiment, the processor executes programming instructions stored in memory. The memory may be a separate component from the processor or may be included onboard within the processor. Alternatively,controller 260 may be constructed without using a microprocessor, e.g., using a combination of discrete analog and/or digital logic circuitry (such as switches, amplifiers, integrators, comparators, flip-flops, AND gates, and the like) to perform control functionality instead of relying upon software. Control panel 108 and other components ofwater heating assembly 200 and/orrefrigerator appliance 100 may be in communication withcontroller 260 via one or more signal lines or shared communication busses.Controller 260 is operatively coupled to or in communication withheater 220,air valve 250,water valve 252 andair pump 254. -
Water heating assembly 200 also includeswater level sensor 262 and atemperature sensor 264.Controller 260 is in communication withwater level sensor 262 andtemperature sensor 264. Based upon respective signals fromwater level sensor 262 andtemperature sensor 264,controller 260 can determine or establish a level of water inheating chamber 216 and a temperature of water inheating chamber 216. -
Water level sensor 262 is disposed withinheating chamber 216 oftank 210, e.g., and is mounted totank 210.Water level sensor 262 is configured for measuring of detecting a level or height of water inheating chamber 216. For example,water level sensor 262 can actuate when water reaches a certain predefined height inheating chamber 216.Water level sensor 262 can be any suitable sensor for measuring or determining the height of water inheating chamber 216. For example,water level sensor 262 may be a float switch, a series of continuity probes, an optical or IR sensor, etc. -
Water temperature sensor 264 is disposed adjacent or withinheating chamber 216 oftank 210, e.g., and is mounted totank 210.Water temperature sensor 264 is configured for measuring of detecting a temperature of water inheating chamber 216.Water temperature sensor 264 can be any suitable sensor for measuring or determining the temperature of water inheating chamber 216. For example,water temperature sensor 264 may be a thermocouple, a thermistor, a thermostat, etc. -
FIGS. 5 , 6 and 7 provide schematic views of a dispensing operation ofwater heating assembly 200.FIG. 9 illustrates amethod 300 for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.Method 300 can be used to operate any suitable water heating assembly. For example,method 300 may be used to operatewater heating assembly 160 of refrigerator appliance 100 (FIG. 1 ) and/or water heating assembly 200 (FIG. 2 ). In particular,controller 260 ofwater heating assembly 200 may be programmed or configured to implementmethod 300. Utilizingmethod 300, a performance ofwater heating assembly 200 can be improved, e.g., despite backpressure downstream ofwater heating assembly 200.Method 300 is discussed in greater detail below with reference toFIGS. 5 , 6 and 7. - At
step 310,heating chamber 216 is filled with water. As an example,controller 260 can actuatewater valve 254 to the open arrangement in order to initiate a flow of water intoheating chamber 216 throughinlet conduit 230 anddownspout 256. After a period of time,controller 260 can actuatewater valve 254 to the closed arrangement, e.g., when heatingchamber 216 oftank 210 is full of water as shown inFIG. 5 . Duringstep 310,air valve 250 can be in the open configuration. Withair valve 250 in the open configuration air fromheating chamber 216 can flow throughflow conduit 219 toexpansion chamber 218. In such a manner,air valve 250 can hinder pressurization of air inheating chamber 216 and/orexpansion chamber 218 duringstep 310. - At
step 315, a heated water request signal is received bycontroller 260, e.g., fromcontrol panel 140 ofrefrigerator 100. As an example, a user ofrefrigerator appliance 100 can actuate a button oncontrol panel 100 to generate the heated water request signal atcontrol panel 140 duringstep 315. The heated water request signal can correspond to an activation signal forwater heating assembly 200, e.g., that starts heating of water bywater heating assembly 200. - In response to the heated water request signal,
controller 260 canopen air valve 250 or verify thatair valve 250 is open prior to step 320. Withair valve 250 in the open configuration, water can flow intoexpansion chamber 218, e.g., due to thermal expansion of water atstep 320, without pressurizingheating chamber 216 and/orevaporation chamber 218. As discussed above,air valve 250 permits air flow out ofexpansion chamber 218 throughvent 242 in the open configuration. - At
step 320, controller operatesheater 220 in order to heat the water withinheating chamber 216. As discussed above, the water withinheating chamber 216 expands duringstep 320, and water can flow intoexpansion chamber 218 fromheating chamber 216 viaflow conduit 219 duringstep 320 due to such expansion as shown inFIG. 6 . Atstep 325,controller 260 measures the temperature of water withinheating chamber 216.Controller 260 can monitor the temperature of the water withinheating chamber 216 atstep 325 until the temperature of the water inheating chamber 216 exceeds a threshold temperature, e.g., about one hundred and eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature of the water inheating chamber 216 exceeds the threshold temperature,controller 260 deactivatesheater 220 in order to stop heating water withinheating chamber 216 atstep 330. - At
step 335,controller 260 closesair valve 250, e.g., such thatair valve 250 obstructs air flow out ofexpansion chamber 218 throughair valve 250 and vent 242. Thus, atstep 335,air valve 250 is adjusted to the closed configuration such thatair valve 250 obstructs airflow throughvent 242. Atstep 340,controller 260 works or operatesair pump 252, e.g., in order to direct air intoexpansion chamber 218. Duringstep 340, air pumped intoexpansion chamber 218 byair pump 252 forces or urges water out ofexpansion chamber 218. Thus, atstep 340,air pump 252 can remove water withinexpansion chamber 218 fromexpansion chamber 218 by pumping air intoexpansion chamber 218 withair valve 250 closed. In particular,air pump 252 can remove water that entersexpansion chamber 218 duringstep 320 fromexpansion chamber 218 atstep 340. - In addition, as water from
expansion chamber 218 flows out ofexpansion chamber 218 intoheating chamber 216 viaflow conduit 219 atstep 340, heated water withinheating chamber 216 also flows out ofheating chamber 216. In particular, heated water withinheating chamber 216 can flow out ofheating chamber 216 viaoutlet conduit 232 duringstep 340 due toair pump 252 forcing water fromexpansion chamber 218 intoheating chamber 216. -
Expansion chamber 218 contains a finite volume of water therein. Thus, prior to step 345,controller 260 can deactivateair pump 250 whencheck valve 234 closes. For example, as shown inFIG. 7 , afterair pump 252 has removed substantially all water fromexpansion chamber 218,float body 236 ofcheck valve 234 can settle at oradjacent flow conduit 219, e.g.,second opening 246 offlow conduit 219. Thus,float body 236 can hinder or block further water flow and airflow out ofexpansion conduit 218 throughflow conduit 219. At such time,controller 260 can deactivateair pump 250. In such a manner, a particular volume of heated liquid water can be dispensed atstep 340 byair pump 252. For example,expansion chamber 218 can be sized to contain sufficient water to brew a beverage. For example,expansion chamber 218 can be sized to contain at least six ounces or eight ounces of liquid water. Thus, duringstep 340,air pump 252 can dispense or displace at least six ounces or eight ounces of heated water fromheating chamber 216 oftank 210.Controller 260 can also deactivateair pump 252 at a later time as discussed below. - At
step 345,controller 260 openswater valve 254, e.g., such thatwater valve 254 permits a flow of water frominlet conduit 230 intoheating chamber 216 throughwater valve 254. Heated water withinheating chamber 216 also flows out ofheating chamber 216 whenwater valve 254 is opened atstep 345. In particular, water frominlet conduit 230 displaces heated water withinheating chamber 216 fromheating chamber 216, e.g., and dispenses such heated water throughoutlet conduit 232. Atstep 350,controller 260 closeswater valve 254, e.g., when a predetermined volume of heated water has been dispensed. - At
step 355, controller deactivatesair pump 254, e.g., ifcontroller 260 has not already deactivatedair pump 254 prior to step 245. In particular,controller 260 can deactivateair pump 254 whencheck valve 234 closes. In such a manner, over-pressurization ofexpansion chamber 218 can be avoided or limited.Air valve 250 opens atstep 360, e.g., to ventexpansion chamber 218. - Utilizing
method 300, heated water withheating chamber 216 can be dispensed by pumping air intoexpansion chamber 218 withair pump 252.Air pump 252 can be configured to pump air intoexpansion chamber 218 at a variety of pressures and/or flow rates in order to regulate the flow of heated water out ofheating chamber 216. In such a manner, heated water withinheating chamber 216 can be dispensed accurately and/or precisely withair pump 252. In particular,method 300 can assist with dispensing heated water accurately and/or precisely despite backpressure downstream ofwater heating assembly 200. Further,heating chamber 216 can be refilled with water frominlet conduit 230, whileair pump 252 is operating or afterair pump 252 has been deactivated, by actuatingwater valve 242. -
FIG. 8 provides a schematic view of certain components ofwater heating assembly 200. InFIG. 8 ,water heating assembly 200 is configured for directing heated water inheating chamber 218 to abrewing module 290. Inbrewing module 290, such heated water may be combined with various food items or flavor additives, such as tea leaves or coffee grounds, to brew or generate a beverage for consumption.Outlet conduit 232 extends betweentank 210 andbrewing module 290 in order to direct heated water fromheating chamber 216 oftank 210 tobrewing module 290. - In addition, as may be seen in
FIG. 8 ,water heating assembly 200 includes awater supply 280, such as a well or municipal water system.Water supply 280 directs liquid water at a premises line pressure towater heating assembly 200. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the premises line pressure can vary, for example, between about twenty psig and about one hundred and twenty psig. Typical premises line pressures are in the range of about sixty psig. - An
isolation valve 282 can selectively terminate water flow fromwater supply 280 towater heating assembly 200. Afilter 284 filters or screens particles and/or other impurities from water flowing therethrough.Water heating assembly 200 also includes aflow meter 286 for measuring a flow rate of water flowing therethrough.Flow meter 286 can assistwater level sensor 262 with determining or measuring the volume of water inheating chamber 216 and/orexpansion chamber 218. Aflow conditioner 288 can reduce a pressure of water passing therethrough. As an example,flow condition 288 can reduce the pressure of water fromwater source 280 from about sixty psig to about twenty psig. - As may be seen in
FIG. 8 , aninlet 233 ofoutlet conduit 232 is positioned withinheating chamber 216. In particular,inlet 233 ofoutlet conduit 232 is spaced apart from atop wall 211 oftank 210, e.g., along the vertical direction V, by about a height H. Such spacing can assist with dispensing a particular volume of heated water fromwater heating assembly 200 as discussed in greater detail below. -
FIG. 10 illustrates amethod 400 for operating a water heating assembly of a refrigerator appliance according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.Method 400 can be used to operate any suitable water heating assembly. For example,method 400 may be used to operatewater heating assembly 160 of refrigerator appliance 100 (FIG. 1 ) and/or water heating assembly 200 (FIG. 2 ). In particular,controller 260 ofwater heating assembly 200 may be programmed or configured to implementmethod 400. Utilizingmethod 400, a performance ofwater heating assembly 200 can be improved, e.g., despite backpressure downstream ofwater heating assembly 200.Method 400 is discussed in greater detail below with reference toFIG. 8 . - At
step 410,heating chamber 216 is filled with water. As an example,controller 260 can actuatewater valve 254 to the open arrangement in order to initiate a flow of water intoheating chamber 216 throughinlet conduit 230 anddownspout 256. After a period of time,controller 260 can actuatewater valve 254 to the closed arrangement, e.g., when heatingchamber 216 oftank 210 is full of water. Duringstep 410,air valve 250 can be in the open configuration. Withair valve 250 in the open configuration air fromheating chamber 216 can flow throughflow conduit 219 toexpansion chamber 218. In such a manner,air valve 250 can hinder pressurization of air inheating chamber 216 and/orexpansion chamber 218 duringstep 410. - At
step 415, a heated water request signal is received bycontroller 260, e.g., fromcontrol panel 140 ofrefrigerator 100. As an example, a user ofrefrigerator appliance 100 can actuate a button oncontrol panel 100 to generate the heated water request signal atcontrol panel 140 duringstep 415. The heated water request signal can correspond to an activation signal forwater heating assembly 200, e.g., that starts heating of water bywater heating assembly 200. - At
step 420, controller operatesheater 220 in order to heat the water withinheating chamber 216. The water withinheating chamber 216 expands duringstep 420, and water can flow intoexpansion chamber 218 duringstep 420 due to such expansion. Atstep 425,controller 260 measures the temperature of water withinheating chamber 216.Controller 260 can monitor the temperature of the water withinheating chamber 216 atstep 425 until the temperature of the water inheating chamber 216 exceeds a threshold temperature, e.g., about one hundred and eighty degrees Fahrenheit or about two hundred degrees Fahrenheit. When the temperature of the water inheating chamber 216 exceeds the threshold temperature,controller 260 can deactivateheater 220 in order to stop heating water withinheating chamber 216. - At
step 430,controller 260 determines whether a heated water dispense or a brewed beverage dispense was requested atstep 415. The heated water dispense can correspond to a request for dispensing of heated water from thewater heating assembly 200. Conversely, the brewed beverage dispense can correspond to a request for dispensing of brewed beverage from thewater heating assembly 200, e.g., thebrewing module 290 ofwater heating assembly 200. As an example, a user can select the heated water dispense atstep 415 if only heated water is desired, or the user can select the brewed beverage dispense atstep 425 is a flavored beverage is desired. - As will be understood by those skilled in the art,
brewing module 290 can generate backpressure that affects operation ofwater heating assembly 200, such as water flow throughheating chamber 216 andVenturi portion 248. Thus, in the brewed beverage dispense,water heating appliance 200 can experience backpressure as a result ofbrewing module 290. Conversely, in the heated water dispense, such backpressure is not experienced, e.g., becausebrewing module 290 is not activated or utilized. Thus,method 400 can assist with operatingwater heating assembly 200 in a manner that accounts for backpressure. - At
step 435,controller 260 openswater valve 252 such thatwater valve 252 permits a flow of water intoheating chamber 216 throughinlet conduit 230 if the heated water dispense is selected atstep 430. Atstep 440, heated water withinheating chamber 216 flows out ofheating chamber 216 and is dispensed, e.g., due to water frominlet conduit 230 displacing such heated water. As discussed above, when water passes throughinlet conduit 230, such water also passes throughVenturi portion 248. When water passes throughVenturi portion 248,Venturi portion 248 draws water fromexpansion chamber 218 intoheating chamber 216. In such a manner,Venturi portion 248 can drainexpansion chamber 218, and heated water fromheating chamber 216 can be dispensed during the heated water dispense. - Conversely, at
step 445,controller 260 closesair valve 250, e.g., such thatair valve 250 obstructs air flow out ofexpansion chamber 218 throughair valve 250 and vent 242, if the brewed beverage dispense is selected atstep 430. Thus, atstep 445,air valve 250 is adjusted to the closed configuration such thatair valve 250 obstructs airflow throughvent 242. Atstep 450,controller 260 works or operatesair pump 252, e.g., in order to direct air intoexpansion chamber 218. Duringstep 450, air pumped intoexpansion chamber 218 byair pump 252 forces or urges water out ofexpansion chamber 218. Thus, atstep 450,air pump 252 can remove water withinexpansion chamber 218 fromexpansion chamber 218 by pumping air intoexpansion chamber 218 withair valve 250 closed. - As water from
expansion chamber 218 flows out ofexpansion chamber 218 intoheating chamber 216 viaflow conduit 219 atstep 450, heated water withinheating chamber 216 also flows out ofheating chamber 216 and is dispensed atstep 455. In particular, heated water withinheating chamber 216 can flow out ofheating chamber 216 viaoutlet conduit 232 duringstep 455 due toair pump 252 forcing water fromexpansion chamber 218 intoheating chamber 216. In such a manner,air pump 252 can drainexpansion chamber 218 and dispense heated water fromheating chamber 216 during the brewed beverage dispense, e.g., when backpressure frombrewing module 290 negates the effect ofVenturi portion 248. -
Method 400 can also include directing a flow of air throughbrewing module 290 withair pump 254 afterstep 455. For example, ifcheck valve 234 is an active valve, such as solenoid valve,controller 260 can opencheck valve 234 and permit air from air pump to enterheating chamber 216 atstep 450. Air can displace heated water withinheating chamber 216 and force or urge heated water out ofheating chamber 216 viaoutlet conduit 232, e.g., until the level of liquid inheating chamber 216 drops below theinlet 233 ofoutlet conduit 232. By properly selecting the height H betweeninlet 233 ofoutlet conduit 232 andtop wall 211 oftank 210,air pump 254 can dispense a particular volume of heated water fromheating chamber 216 and also direct air throughbrewing module 290 after dispensing the particular volume of heated water. - To assist a user with dispensing heated water,
controller 260 can pulse or intermittently activateair pump 254 when a dispense operation ofwater heating assembly 200 is initiated, e.g., prior to step 340 and/or step 450. Such intermittent operation can cause droplets of water to be dispensed rather than a stream of water, and such droplets can assist the user with properly locating the container within the dispenser. - This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.
Claims (20)
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EP3695755A4 (en) * | 2017-10-13 | 2020-11-25 | Qingdao Haier Joint Stock Co., Ltd | Refrigerator |
EP3696484A4 (en) * | 2017-10-13 | 2020-11-25 | Qingdao Haier Joint Stock Co., Ltd | Refrigerator |
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KR102413211B1 (en) * | 2017-09-05 | 2022-06-27 | 현대자동차주식회사 | Apparatus for heating coolant of vehicle |
CN107928409A (en) * | 2017-10-13 | 2018-04-20 | 青岛海尔股份有限公司 | Refrigerator |
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